McMurdo Station
McMurdo is distinctive not only for its scientific role but also for the unusual scale of daily life in Antarctica. The station has a power plant, medical facilities, dining services, workshops, communications systems, and specialized vehicles used to support research in extreme conditions. Nearby Scott Base, operated by New Zealand, provides another important Antarctic research presence on Ross Island. McMurdo also supports flights and overland journeys to remote parts of the continent.
Hakone
Nestled in the mountains just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hakone has long been a retreat for travelers seeking both quiet and culture. Once a crucial checkpoint on the historic Tōkaidō road between Edo and Kyoto, Hakone is still shaped by centuries of history. The reconstructed Hakone Sekisho (Hakone Checkpoint) offers a glimpse into the Edo Period, when travelers were inspected by samurai guards before continuing on their journey.
Moab
Nestled between Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park, Moab is the perfect entryway to some of Utah’s most iconic scenery. Dotted with gorgeous sandstone formations, mesas, and buttes, Moab epitomizes the rugged beauty of the American Southwest.
Helsinki
Nature is never far in Helsinki. Locals swim in the sea, walk forested trails, and gather mushrooms or berries all within city limits. One popular local habit is heading to the sauna, and the city offers several open-to-the-public options. Löyly, located on the waterfront, combines traditional wood-burning saunas with a sleek, modern design. In winter, visitors can even pair a sauna session with a quick dip through a hole cut in the ice for an experience both shocking and strangely calming.
Sydney
Sydney, Australia, is a vibrant city where iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and natural beauty converge. The Sydney Opera House, with its striking sail-like design, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge are symbols recognized around the world, yet the city offers much more beyond its famous skyline.
